Thirteen trees that form part of the skyline of a Preston park are being felled.

The trees at Winckley Square will be removed from the park as part of a programme of regeneration work taking place over the next three months.

The trees, a mixture of ash, beech, chestnut and oak, have been hit by various diseases which are eating the roots and making them unsafe.

The most dangerous is an 18-metre tall chestnut which is beginning to lose its larger branches.

The tree felling follows a survey of the area to establish the condition of the trees in preparation for the Winckley Square regeneration project.

The tree felling follows a survey of the area to establish the condition of the trees in preparation for the Winckley Square regeneration project.

New trees will be planted over the next few years while this work takes place.

Councillor Keith Sedgewick, executive member for environment and neighbourhood services, said: "Nobody likes to see the removal of trees like this, but unfortunately we have no other option.

"The tree that is causing the biggest danger is a chestnut tree at the corner of the square. We've carried out remedial work over the years but it's in such a bad state that we have to pull it down.

"There are also 12 other trees that have become unsafe and our officers will be removing these over the next few months.

"The square will be undergoing a multi-million pound regeneration scheme over the next three years and will be re-landscaped in sympathy with the local conservation area. This work will make Winckley Square a more attractive and safer place to visit."

The tree removal work is being carried out following a consultation with the Friends of Avenham and Miller Park.

Father Timothy Lipscomb, chairman of the Friends group, said: "This work is absolutely necessary and I'm pleased it's taking place. The trees are in a dangerous condition.

"People visit the square during their lunchtime, at weekends with their families, and for community events so we must ensure it's a safer place for everyone.

"This is the first stage of the revitalisation of Winckley Square and new trees will be planted over the next few years.

"Along with the Winckley Square regeneration project, this work should make the square a better place to live, work and visit."